The spectacle of the presepi in Italy is impressive, packed as they are with a wealth of figures depicting the story of the Nativity. Among the throng of shepherds you might just spot one playing the bagpipes (zampogna). In folklore, shepherds inherited the gift of music from the angels who played at the birth of Jesus. The art of these rustic minstrel zampognari continues, especially in southern Italy, where you might well hear the plaintive strains of ancient bagpipes in the run-up to Christmas.